Recognizing the connection between beautification and businessification is the whole idea behind Southeast Fairfax Development Corporation's annual Mary Thonen Beautification Awards.
In the view of SFDC, attractive landscaping brings more consumers, according to Lara Fritts, executive director, SFDC.
Based on this premise, SFDC announced the winners of this year's beautification awards. The top three recipients are: Huntington Gateway, Belle Haven Apartments, and Mr. Kleen Car Wash. Each will receive a plaque from SFDC recognizing their contribution to beautification efforts.
Recipients of honorable mention include: Montebello, South Meadows Condos, Red Roof Inn, Sacramento Center, Mount Vernon Plaza, Exxon at Lockheed Boulevard, and El Puerto restaurant.
Each year the Mary Thonen Beautification Award recognizes ten businesses and property owners for their outstanding contributions to Richmond Highway beautification in the form of landscape improvements. The award, named in honor of long-time SFDC board member Mary Thonen, serves as a memorial to her life, hard work, and dedication in her service to the Mount Vernon and Lee communities, according to Fritts.
While there are no specific minimum qualifications for nominees, recipients generally have landscaped both their storefront area and their service drive median with mature trees, shrubs and colorful annual planting, Fritts explained.
For information regarding the award program contact SFDC at 703-360-5008 or at info@sfdc.org.